Written Answers Nos. 97-120
97. Deputy Edward Timmins asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the steps that are taken to ensure that while quality and safety standards are met, excessive paperwork and inspections does not deter contractors from signing up to join the home energy grant scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27698/26]
View answerMy Department funds a number of grant schemes, administered by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), to support homeowners improve the energy efficiency of their properties. Following Government approval in January, I published a new National Residential Retrofit Plan (NRRP) with an enhanced set of measures to increase delivery of home energy upgrades.
The new measures, which include higher attic and cavity wall insulation grants as well as new windows and doors grants, are generating increased interest amongst homeowners in home energy upgrades, with the SEAI reporting a near two-fold increase in applications in the first quarter of this year compared to the same period in 2025.
On the supply side, the retrofit sector is mobilising and responding to the growing interest in energy upgrades underpinned by SEAI grant support. This is reflected in the number of manufacturers and distributors of external windows and doors having reached 470 to date on the SEAI register. This can be accessed on their website at: www.seai.ie/GrantProcess/ContractorSearch.aspx
In the context of not deterring customers, SEAI is currently carrying out a detailed review of their customer journeys to simplify, streamline and standardise processes, including contractor registration, submission of post-works information and inspection processes. They are currently developing a customer portal to support user-friendly, simplified and digitalised customer interactions with SEAI.
The SEAI undertake active contractor engagement to significantly increase the number, capacity, and quality of contractors to meet the increasing appetite of homeowners who want to upgrade their homes. There are also significant resources made available to SEAI registered contractors, including marketing support and technical guidance to support delivery of high-quality installation and customer service.
There is ongoing engagement with industry to understand how to make it easier to register and do business through the schemes. For example, the SEAI carried out a survey of contractors in 2025 to understand the experience of contractors working in the home renovation space, and the barriers (whether experienced or perceived) preventing contractors from moving into the retrofit business, from registering with the SEAI, or from growing their existing retrofitting business. These insights feed into continuous improvement of their processes.
The SEAI also operate a quality assurance programme to ensure the maintenance of high standards of contractor workmanship, build consumer confidence, monitor health and safety, and ensure proper governance of the spending of public money.
The Government has also taken tangible steps to expand the retrofit workforce, including the establishment of 6 Retrofit Centres of Excellence.
The budget of up to €3.7 billion to the end of the decade, supplemented by allocations from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), will enable the supply chains and contractor capacity continue to strengthen, gain in confidence, grow, take on staff, and further invest and innovate.
99. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment his plans for a further reduction in the NORA levy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27350/26]
View answerThe National Oil Reserves Agency (Amendment) Act 2026 provides for a reduction in the Petroleum Product Levy, more commonly known as the NORA Levy. The NORA levy is a charge of 2 cent per litre applied to most petroleum products sold in the market, for the purpose of funding the operations of the National Oil Reserves Agency and the Climate Action Fund. The levy has been reduced to a nominal amount, with the reduction coming into effect from 1 April 2026, and will be kept in place until 31 July 2026.
The reduction in the NORA levy for a four-month period is estimated to result in a reduction of levy income accruing to NORA of c.€40m.
This levy reduction will assist in easing the financial impact of energy price inflation.
It should be noted that NORA has a significant financial reserve and that this temporary levy reduction will not impact on its ability to carry out its functions.
As the Deputy is aware, NORA has operational responsibility for the day-to-day management of the State’s Strategic Oil Reserve of 85 days of oil stocks. Stock may be released from Ireland’s stockholding in the event of a shortage of refined product on the domestic market, or as recently happened to participate in an International Energy Agency collective action, to alleviate a global oil shortage.
100. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment to provide an update on the North South interconnector. [27324/26]
View answerThe North South Interconnector is the number one priority electricity transmission project over the coming years, and Government fully supports its delivery. It will link the electricity networks of Ireland and Northern Ireland leading to a more secure, affordable and sustainable supply of electricity across the island. The project once delivered is estimated to deliver cost savings of €100 million per annum to households and businesses across the island of Ireland.
In March, EirGrid wrote to affected landowners stating that ESB, as owners of the electricity grid, had decided to progress the project using its statutory wayleave powers for the placement of cables and pylons on the required lands. I understand that once the relevant local authorities are satisfied that the planning conditions for the Interconnector are fulfilled, construction will proceed.
Funding for the project has been provided for by the CRU Price Review 6 (PR6) decision. PR6 will see up to €18.9 billion invested in our electricity system over the coming 5 years, the largest ever electricity grid investment. In line with the PR6 programme, it is envisaged that construction of the North South Interconnector will begin in June 2026, with final energisation targeted for October 2031.
The North South Interconnector is an excellent example of the critical infrastructure that this Government is determined to accelerate. Government has established a number of taskforces focused on accelerating delivery of the electricity grid and generation assets and has published the Accelerating Infrastructure Action Plan. These taskforces and measures are critical to enabling delivery of the required underlying grid infrastructure and the renewable generation assets required to transform both our society and economy.
101. Deputy Tony McCormack asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the proposed approach to setting renewable energy output targets at county level; the timeline for the announcement of such targets; the mechanisms by which they will be implemented and monitored; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25716/26]
View answerRegional Renewable Electricity Capacity Allocations for onshore wind and solar were included in the first revision of the National Planning Framework, or NPF, published in April 2025.
As outlined in National Policy Objective 74 and 75 of the NPF, these allocations will be planned for and integrated into Regional Renewable Energy Strategies, forming part of the assemblies revised Regional Spatial and Economic Strategies. As part of these strategies, the Regional Assemblies will identify sub-allocations for each of their local authorities.
These local authority level allocations will in turn be planned for through the city and county development plans, ultimately leading to the identification and designation, by Local Authorities, of suitable areas where onshore wind and solar energy development will be directed towards. This will enable us to collectively meet our overall national targets for renewable electricity and greenhouse gas emissions.
As an action of the Accelerating Renewable Electricity Taskforce, and as part of a collaboration between the three Regional Assemblies, my Department, the Department of Housing Local Government and Heritage and the SEAI, a methodology has been developed which provides guidance to the Regional Assemblies in identifying and agreeing robust and coordinated local authority level renewable electricity capacity allocations.
It is worth noting that, as of the 26 March, all three Regional Assemblies have commenced the review process of their Regional Spatial and Economic Strategies and have publish ‘Strategic Issue Papers’ as part of their public consultation process. These Issues Papers, available online, provide information on the key issues to be considered as part of the review process and seeks public input on how these issues should be addressed. Submissions received will inform the Assemblies' preparation of their draft strategies, which are scheduled for publication in Quarter 4 2026.
102. Deputy John Paul O'Shea asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he will provide details of projects approved from the €500 million allocated to his Department to support climate mitigation and renewable energy development as part of the €3.15 billion of the Infrastructure, Climate and Nature Fund; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27090/26]
View answerAs set out in my Department's NDP Sectoral Capital Plan, my Department will provide up to €5.64 billion in capital funding between 2026 and 2030 for investments in essential infrastructure to support the wider economy. This will include:-
the delivery of secure and sustainable supplies of energy;
• a robust system for the regulation of Ireland’s energy markets and infrastructure; and
• the protection of Ireland’s environment and reducing Ireland’s carbon emissions.
Within this overall NDP allocation, my Department has been allocated €500 million from the Infrastructure, Climate and Nature Fund (ICNF) to fund projects and programmes that will support the Department's climate mitigation and renewable energy objectives.
I have designated the following programmes for which my Department has responsibility to receive funding from the ICNF:
• Offshore Site Surveying Programme;
• National Biomethane Programme;
• District Heating Infrastructure; and
• Public Sector Pathfinder Programme.
The Offshore Site Surveying Programme forms a key part of the Government’s commitment to fast-track offshore wind development through prioritising DMAPs and resourcing key agencies to accelerate development.
A combination of capital grants and the introduction of the Renewable Heat Obligation (RHO) has been agreed by Government to put Ireland on a trajectory to meeting the 5.7TWh target by 2030 of indigenously produced biomethane.
The Government will provide capital support for the development of district heating projects between 2026 to 2030. The scheme to support district heating projects is called the Support Scheme for District Heat (SSDH) and will be open for project applications at the end of this year.
The Public Sector Pathfinder programme operated by SEAI on behalf of my Department supports capital retrofit projects in the public sector. For 2026, €21m in capital funding has been allocated to the Public Sector Pathfinder Programme from the ICNF, with further funding to be sourced from the Climate Action Fund.
103. Deputy Noel McCarthy asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment to provide an update on the drafting of the Private Wires Bill 2025; when he expects it to be enacted; the engagement his Department has had to date with ESBN, the CRU and ZEVI on the installation of EV charge points for electric vehicle users without driveways; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27088/26]
View answerThe Climate Action Plan target is for 30% of all private cars to be electric vehicles by 2030. The General Scheme for private wires was approved in December 2025, with one of the goals of the legislation to facilitate onstreet EV charging.
Zero Emissions Vehicle Ireland, the Department of Transport is working with my Department and local government to develop a solution to enable people without access to offstreet parking to use a home charging solution for onstreet parking. I expect this to be finalised later this year.
My Department is currently in the process of drafting the Private Wires Bill. Developing private wires legislation is a priority to this Government and was a commitment in the Programme for Government. Engagement with key stakeholders such as the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel, Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, ZEVI, ESB Networks and the CRU is ongoing to support the timely development of the Bill and supporting Implementation Plan.
The Private Wires General Scheme underwent Pre Legislative Scrutiny in February 2026, with a report from the Joint Committee on Climate, Energy and the Environment expected this month.
104. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he is satisfied that regulations regarding hardship metres and pay as-you-go metres are sufficient; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26172/26]
View answerA range of CRU customer protections are in place for households on prepayment and hardship meters including:
• suppliers are required to ensure that all customers with a financial hardship meter are placed on the most economic or cheapest tariff. This includes a tariff that might otherwise only be available to, for example, a new customer or a customer as a retention offer;
• suppliers must ensure that up to a maximum of 15% of a single customer vend can be attributed to debt recovery;
• suppliers are required to advise their prepayment customers in debt of other payment options to them . Suppliers were reminded that it is not recommended that vulnerable customers are on prepayment meters;
• the €200 gas meter exchange siteworks charge associated with a customer moving from a Pay As You Go gas meter to a credit meter is suspended for all domestic customers;
• suppliers are required to continue to provide appropriately trained call centre staff to help better identify customers in debt or facing debt, at an earlier stage;
• emergency credit on all electricity and gas prepay meters should represent no less than €20 credit in total; and
• suppliers must also send a reminder to all domestic customers, including Pay As You Go customers, about the eligibility criteria, how to apply and the benefits of registering as a vulnerable customer.
As Minister, I have engaged with all suppliers and met with the four biggest energy retailers in recent months. The suppliers have since committed to ensuring that hardship funds and focused measures are in place for any customers who may find themselves in difficulty. I have also recently written to retail electricity and gas suppliers, as well as fuel suppliers, to emphasise the importance of reducing the exposure for Irish consumers from the price shocks that global uncertainty can create.
I would encourage all customers, including Pay As You Go customers, to engage with their energy supplier if facing financial difficulties.
I would also remind the Deputy that the Department of Social Protection can also provide support through the Additional Needs Payment to help households meet expenses, including those who face difficulties with fuel bills.
105. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the actions that are being taken to ensure energy security with the current global fuel crisis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27076/26]
View answerOil and gas supplies to Ireland are secure. The impact of the conflict in the Middle East is on price rather than supply. The duration of high prices of these internationally traded commodities depends on the evolving geopolitical situation.
Through the National Oil Reserves Agency (NORA), Ireland currently holds 85 days of oil stocks. NORA manages the State's Strategic Reserves. My Department has convened the Oil Security of Supply Group which meets weekly and consists of relevant Government Departments and Agencies, in addition to the Fuels for Ireland representative body and oil companies. At a meeting on 7 April, industry confirmed that they had secured supply into mid-May. Ireland’s fuel supply chains remain robust and reliable.
At this time, Ireland’s gas supply is secure with no disruption expected in the short-term due to the situation in the Persian Gulf. Approximately 20% of Ireland’s gas is supplied domestically from the Corrib natural gas field, and we also have small volumes of indigenous biomethane being injected into the national gas network. The balance comes via Ireland’s two interconnectors with the UK. The UK’s gas supply is highly diversified with the majority coming from the UK Continental Shelf via the North Sea and Norway. Remaining gas is sourced from international markets via Liquified Natural Gas (LNG), UK gas storage and two interconnectors to the Continent. The majority of UK LNG comes from America, with only a small proportion coming from the Gulf.
'Energy Security in Ireland to 2030' strategy set out a clear vision to increase Ireland’s energy security by reducing reliance on fossil fuels and increasing domestic production of renewable energy. Delivery of our ambitious renewable and electrification targets set out in the Climate Action Plan will be key in this regard.
106. Deputy Mark Ward asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the steps his Department is taking to tackle price gouging by energy retailers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27564/26]
View answer114. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he will consider legislating for an annual review of pass through of wholesale prices to customers to ensure that there is a constant monitoring of energy prices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27439/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 106 and 114 together.
Retail electricity prices are influenced by several factors, including wholesale energy prices, system operation costs and supplier hedging. The latest data from Eurostat shows that, in nominal terms, Ireland ranked fifth for household electricity prices among European countries in the first half of 2025. When adjusting for purchasing power parity, Ireland is mid-table in terms of affordability with the twelfth highest electricity prices among European countries.
In a report from last October, the International Energy Agency (IEA) observed that Irish retail prices had not adjusted at a comparable pace to the decline in wholesale prices, with the energy component of retail prices remaining up to three times that of wholesale prices. While the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) has found no evidence of market failure or windfall profits in the retail sector in its market monitoring role, the IEA findings underline the importance of progressing the Programme for Government commitment to “commission an independent review into the speed and level of passthrough from wholesale prices to retail prices.”
As Minister, I have written to CRU to request that they commence this independent review, building on the work of previous CRU investigations by reviewing the competitiveness of Irish retail energy markets, examining supplier costs, including hedging and pricing practices, and providing comparative price analysis with other EU Member States. It will also assess whether measures are warranted to enhance market responsiveness to wholesale price changes, and make recommendations to ensure that the benefits of lower wholesale prices are felt by consumers.
My officials have engaged with the CRU to emphasise the importance of this matter and I understand that work on the project is ongoing. This report will also inform the work of the National Energy Affordability Taskforce.
Importantly, the CRU is also engaging with the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission in relation to the review.
107. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he will consider reinstating the battery grant scheme that was abolished in 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27438/26]
View answerThe Microgeneration Support Scheme (MSS) provides supports to both domestic and non-domestic applicants, in the form of grants for solar PV installations, up to a maximum of €1,800 in 2026 for household installations.
As part of designing a new support scheme, the SEAI undertook an assessment of continuing the previous battery grants under the MSS and concluded that in light of:
• the cost of batteries;
• their low storage capacities of only a few hours; and
• their relatively short lifetime,
a stand-alone battery grant did not represent efficient use of limited Exchequer funds at that time.
Solar PV systems and battery storage solutions (including EV batteries with vehicle to home/grid capabilities) are increasingly being designed to act in response to dynamic conditions, such as fluctuating tariff prices or grid congestion scenarios. Such systems can also be configured to operate at times when a grid connection is temporarily unavailable, through the use of additional changeover switches and appropriate electrical wiring. My Department will work with the SEAI to assess the feasibility of supporting such smart energy solutions.
Since its launch in 2022, the Domestic Solar PV Grant Scheme has gone from strength to strength, with:-
• over 10,000 applicants supported in 2022;
• 22,214 in 2023;
• 28,000 in 2024; and
• over 33,000 last year.
Budget 2026 has allocated over €67m to this year’s scheme. So far this year over 7,000 homes have been supported.
This high level of demand indicates that the scheme is working well and that not only have citizens recognised the significant benefits of investing in solar PV, but that the solar PV industry and supply chain have adapted to the demands of our citizens. The scheme will be kept under review to ensure it is operating effectively and making the best use of Exchequer funding.
108. Deputy Séamus McGrath asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment for an update on his work on the Programme for Government commitment to explore if legislation could be enacted to divert surplus renewable energy that would otherwise be wasted to homes in fuel poverty; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27349/26]
View answer121. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment in the context of the ongoing situation in the Middle East, if he or his Department has given further consideration to implementing a comprehensive strategy for the utilisation of surplus renewable energy to help reduce energy poverty, as in the Energy Poverty Reduction (Use of Surplus Renewable Energy) Bill 2025; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27457/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 108 and 121 together.
Imperfections and dispatch down is a major challenge facing electricity systems, like ours, that are increasingly powered by renewables. This complex issue can only be addressed by taking a systematic and multi-faceted approach requiring investment in grid, storage and demand flexibility.
We are already taking steps to invest in this critical energy infrastructure. For example, PR6 will enable the delivery of over 500 capital network projects, supporting the integration of increasing volumes of renewables and helping to reduce the amount of wasted energy. Last July, the Government committed to investing €3.5 billion of NDP funding in EirGrid and ESB Networks in order to ensure that the PR6 infrastructure programme can be delivered.
Also last year, my Department published the Electricity Storage Policy Framework for Ireland which supported the procurement of 500 MW of demand flexibility products by ESBN and 500 MW of long duration electricity storage by EirGrid to meet specific network needs. Work is already underway to ensure the timely delivery of both.
Last June, EirGrid established the Renewable Dispatch Down Working Group. This group is actively working with renewable industry representatives to identify additional actions that could improve levels of ‘dispatch down’.
Demand flexibility can also help to support our transition to a renewables-led energy system. The National Energy Demand Strategy aims to make 20% to 30% of electricity demand flexible by 2030. A key aspect of this strategy is preparing households and businesses to maximise their use of renewables.
A new Demonstration and Innovation Delivery Programme is under development by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) with the intention of identifying solutions to smart energy challenges, testing applications and assessing impacts. This will be crucial for the successful integration of flexible energy assets in homes, businesses and communities and will ensure that these assets can optimise energy use for consumers, as well as allow consumers to participate in flexible demand management services as these become available. SEAI’s National Energy Research Development and Demonstration Programme provides a framework for successful applicants to scale their initiatives while also ensuring that the associated results and impacts are identified.
My Department has engaged extensively with relevant stakeholders to identify areas for cooperation in relation to tackling energy poverty and renewable energy waste.
The National Energy Affordability Taskforce has also been established by my Department to identify, assess and implement measures that will enhance energy affordability for households and businesses, while delivering key renewable commitments and protecting security of supply and economic stability. It will consider the use of smart technologies to benefit energy poor households and other vulnerable citizens.
The First Report of the Taskforce set out measures for consideration in the Budget 2026 process. The focus of the Taskforce has now turned to the preparation of an Energy Affordability Action Plan to be completed in Q3. The Action Plan will include a review of cost drivers within the energy sector and consideration of measures that benefit households in energy poverty.
109. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment whether he will apply a levy on data centres in order to fund a universal €500 energy credit. [26892/26]
View answerThe Programme for Government outlines the Government's policy position in relation energy, housing, climate, FDI growth and the many other areas. It reflects the balance between the many opportunities and challenges facing the country and the actions that will be taken over the lifetime of this Government. It recognises that increased and unprecedented investment and delivery in our grid, and expanding our energy generation capacity, are key priorities.
Notwithstanding this, the Programme for Government acknowledges the increased energy cost pressures on households and businesses. Government has introduced a suite of measures over recent years to help households and businesses deal with the cost of energy, including taxation and energy incentives, and accelerating the rollout of more renewable energy infrastructure to support a decarbonised electricity system. My Department has also established the National Energy Affordability Taskforce to identify, assess and implement further measures that will enhance energy affordability for households and businesses.
Data centres are critical infrastructure for our modern economy, economic growth, and the delivery of public services. They provide the foundation for almost all online aspects of our lives. The Government is committed to delivering a balanced approach to facilitate additional demand for energy by data centres while also ensuring the competitiveness of our energy system to enhance security and affordability for consumers and businesses. To this end, the Large Energy User Action Plan published in January will guide the sustainable development of strategically significant energy intensive industries, including data centres, in alignment with Ireland’s broader Government objectives. In addition, the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) 2025 Large Energy Users Connection Policy provides increased transparency in respect of new data centre connection obligations establishing a pathway for connection that addresses security of supply and network constraint considerations, while promoting Ireland’s renewable energy ambitions.
Responsibility for the regulation of the electricity and gas retail markets is assigned to the CRU. Prices are set by all suppliers based on commercial and operational considerations. Electricity network tariffs recover the costs of developing, operating and maintaining the network from users connected to the electricity system. The CRU have commenced an electricity network tariff review which will consider the potential structural reviews to ensure continued equitable balance across different user groups.
There are no plans to apply a levy on data centres in order to fund a universal €500 energy credit.
110. Deputy Brian Brennan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment for an update on development of offshore wind capacity; the status of the offshore wind energy programme; progress on developments on the Wicklow and Wexford coastlines; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27633/26]
View answerFive offshore wind projects off our East coast, with planned capacity of 3.8 gigawatts, are currently in development.
Three projects are located off the coast of Wicklow and are
• Arklow Bank Wind Park II,
• Codling Wind Park, and
• Dublin Array Offshore Wind Farm.
The first planning determination for the five projects is anticipated before the end of 2026, with others to follow in 2027. Subject to approval, I anticipate that the five projects will be in procurement and construction by 2030 and operational in the early 2030s.
In December 2025, I announced that Helvick Head DAC, a consortium of ESB and Orsted, had won my Department’s second offshore wind auction and will be developing a 900 megawatt project off the coast of Waterford. I expect this project to be energised by 2033. This project was the first of four to be brought to auction from the South Coast DMAP.
My Department is working closely with EirGrid to develop grid connection options for the second South Coast DMAP site, known as Lí Ban.
My Department is also advancing the National DMAP in order to meet our 2040 targets.
111. Deputy Erin McGreehan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the way in which he is enhancing energy security specifically with regard to diversifying sources of supply in order to cushion Ireland from global energy shocks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27302/26]
View answerOil and gas supplies to Ireland are secure. The impact has been on price impact rather than supply. The duration of high prices of these internationally traded commodities depends on the evolving geopolitical situation. Ireland is working closely with the EU and International Energy Agency including monitoring impacts on sources of supply.
Ireland holds 85 days' supply of stocks of oil. The National Oil Reserves Agency (NORA) manages the State's Strategic Reserves. My Department has convened the Oil Security of Supply Group which meets weekly and consists of relevant Government Departments and Agencies, in addition to the Fuels for Ireland representative body and oil companies. At a meeting on April 7th industry confirmed that they had secured supply into mid-May. Ireland’s fuel supply chains remain robust and reliable.
At this time, Ireland’s gas supply is secure, with no disruption expected in the short-term due to the situation in the Gulf. Approximately 20% of Ireland’s gas is supplied domestically from the Corrib natural gas field, and we also have small volumes of indigenous biomethane being injected into the national gas network. The balance comes via Ireland’s two interconnectors with the UK. The UK’s gas supply is highly diversified with the majority coming from the UK Continental Shelf via the North Sea and Norway. Remaining gas is sourced from international markets via Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), UK gas storage and two interconnectors to the Continent.
'Energy Security in Ireland to 2030' strategy set out a clear vision to increase Ireland’s energy security by reducing reliance on fossil fuels and increasing domestic production of renewable energy and delivery of our ambitious renewable and electrification targets set out in the Climate Action Plan will be key in this regard.
112. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the progress made to date in relation to the national biomethane strategy, in particular the Programme for Government commitment to offer key financial supports and incentives for the strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27659/26]
View answerDelivery of the Government's ambition for indigenous biomethane by 2030 and its use within our energy system will have multiple cross-sectoral benefits for Ireland’s economy, energy security and emissions profile. As such, development of the industry will require a coherent and collaborative approach to policy implementation across all sectors including energy, agriculture and enterprise.
The Biomethane Implementation Group has been established to oversee implementation of the National Biomethane Strategy and delivery of the 25 key strategic actions to ensure the necessary infrastructure and supports are in place to support development of an indigenous biomethane industry of scale.
Chaired by my Department, with close support from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, the group reports directly to the Heat and Built Environment Taskforce on on-going progress and is comprised of a number of focused sub-groups namely - economic, sustainability, infrastructure and industry issues. Membership of the group includes key Government Departments and Agencies.
The group continues to engage with action owners and key stakeholders to monitor implementation and a full progress report on delivery of actions within the National Biomethane Strategy is now published on the biomethane policy information page on Gov.ie website.
Anaerobic digestion (AD) plants are capital intensive projects. Along with operational costs (including feedstock and financing costs) this drives the per unit revenue required by the plant, and in turn the ‘green premium’ over fossil gas.
A combination of capital grants and the introduction of the Renewable Heat Obligation has been agreed by Government to put Ireland on a trajectory to meeting the 2030 ambition.
Funding for the second round of capital grants has been secured through the NDP/ICNF (Infrastructure, Nature and Climate Fund) process and will be available to support AD plants later in 2026.
My Department is in the initial stage of developing the Biomethane Capital Grant Support Scheme.
113. Deputy Aisling Dempsey asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he will report on the work of the National Energy Affordability Taskforce; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27491/26]
View answer136. Deputy Catherine Ardagh asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment for an update on the work of the National Energy Affordability Taskforce. [27253/26]
View answer138. Deputy Mark Ward asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment for an update on the Energy Affordability Action Plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27565/26]
View answer144. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment to provide an update on the progress being made in the work of the National Energy Affordability Taskforce (NEAT); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27314/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 113, 136, 138 and 144 together.
In June 2025, my Department established the National Energy Affordability Taskforce (NEAT) to identify, assess and implement measures that will enhance energy affordability for households and businesses while delivering key renewables commitments, and protecting security of supply and economic stability.
In response to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, I chaired a meeting of the NEAT on 19 March 2026. Discussions covered the macro implications of the conflict for global energy markets; current supply and pricing conditions across oil, gas and electricity in Ireland; customer support measures in place; and the European response to the crisis. A subsequent meeting of the Taskforce was held on 26 March, chaired by the Secretary General of my Department. My Department and the Taskforce continues to actively monitor the current geopolitical situation and the impact on energy markets.
The First Report of the Taskforce, which included measures for consideration in Budget 2026, was published last November. The report is available on gov.ie. The Taskforce has now turned to the preparation of an Energy Affordability Action Plan to be completed in Q3. The Action Plan will include a review of cost drivers within the energy sector and consideration of how the EU Action Plan for Affordable Energy and associated guidance can be implemented in an Irish context. This will include examining how targeted schemes can best assist households in energy poverty and consider supports for households struggling to meet their energy costs.
115. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the safeguards he will introduce as part of his legislation on private wires to ensure that fairness to households becomes a central design principle of the regime; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26173/26]
View answerThe private wires regime was approved by Cabinet on the 16 December 2025. Since then, my Department has begun engagement with the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel to begin drafting the necessary legislation required to bring forward the private wires regime. Introducing a private wires regime is a priority for this Government. It is the intention to have completed the passage of the Bill before the Oireachtas as early as possible this year.
The private wires regime will unlock private sector resources to build new electricity infrastructure by expanding the rights of private undertakings to connect supply directly with demand. The intention is that private wires will accelerate investment in new electricity infrastructure, including renewable generation and storage, in a manner consistent with the guiding principles of the private wires policy. This will strengthen grid efficiency and aid accelerated grid development.
As per the Private Wires Policy Statement, which was approved by Cabinet in July 2025, the introduction of private wires will require a review of the recovery of network charges. This methodology will be created in line with the private wires policy, ensuring that private wire entities will pay the full cost of the service they have sought from, or that is provided to them by, the national electricity grid. This will be introduced to ensure that households do not subsidise private development. Furthermore, private wires will not be permitted to interfere with the development or financing of the national electricity grid.
116. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if the Celtic Interconnector is on track to be operational by Spring 2028; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27323/26]
View answerAs Minister, I have no role in respect of the delivery of offshore electricity grid infrastructure. The Celtic Interconnector is a project being undertaken by EirGrid, as Transmission System Operator. Queries on updates on the project are a matter for EirGrid. EirGrid are independent of the Minister in the exercise of their functions. Planning and developing the electricity grid are functions which are assigned to EirGrid as Transmission System Operator. EirGrid are overseen by the Commission for Regulation of Utilities www.cru.ie/regulations-policy/licences/electricity-interconnectors/which is an independent regulator, accountable to a Committee of the Oireachtas and not I as Minister.
EirGrid have a contact email address for Deputies (oireachtas@eirgrid.com) through which Deputies can seek updates such as that sought in this query.
While I have no role in physically delivering Interconnector infrastructure, ensuring that delivery takes place is a priority for this Government as is evident in the Programme for Government.
Electricity interconnection will play a central role in Ireland’s journey to Net Zero transition. Increased interconnectivity is needed to enable our renewable energy ambitions and improve collective security of supply.
Irelands Interconnection ambitions are well set out in the www.gov.ie/en/publication/3d96f-national-policy-statement-on-electricity-connection-2023/ published in 2023.
117. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment to outline the current progress on the Government strategy to develop offshore wind energy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27458/26]
View answerFive offshore wind projects off our East coast, with a planned capacity of 3.8 gigawatts, are at present in development. Each of these projects hold a Maritime Area Consent and provisional grid connection offer. The first planning determination is anticipated by the end of 2026, with projects anticipated to be operational by the early 2030s.
In December 2025, I announced that the Helvic Head Offshore Wind consortium, a joint venture of ESB and Orsted, had won my Department’s second offshore wind auction. The Tonn Nua project was awarded a MAC in March 2026. Eirgrid is responsible for constructing the Tonn Nua offshore transmission assets and has committed to making a grid connection available by 2033.
My Department is currently developing proposals for an auction of the second site within the South Coast DMAP. My Department is working with Eirgrid to develop grid connection options and I will make a formal announcement in the coming months but I expect the auction to take place in 2027.
My Department is also advancing the National ORE DMAP, which aims to designate sites around Ireland’s entire sea area capable of delivering up to 15GW of Offshore Renewable Energy, to be in development by 2040. The delivery of this plan is a key priority for Government and has a target date of end of 2027 for publication.
The Future Framework for Offshore Renewable Energy, published in May 2024, sets out Government’s long-term strategy for developing ORE in Ireland. A review was carried out in 2025 and published, outlining progress made to date and amending any actions as required. A further review will take place this year.
The cross-Departmental Offshore Wind Delivery Taskforce, established in 2022, brings together work ongoing across government, agencies and industry to deliver on Ireland’s offshore wind ambitions.
118. Deputy Joe Neville asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the level of engagement his Department has had with fuel suppliers into Ireland given the ongoing war; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26169/26]
View answer142. Deputy Joe Neville asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if his Department is monitoring the supply of fuel into Ireland given the ongoing war; the guarantees in place for the coming months should it continue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26170/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 118 and 142 together.
The situation in the Middle East clearly remains volatile and highly uncertain. Against this backdrop, it is imperative that Government remains informed of the evolving situation as it pertains to fuel suppliers.
In this regard, my Department has established the Oil Security of Supply Group. The Group is chaired by my Department and membership includes the Department of Transport, the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, the National Oil Reserves Agency (NORA), Fuels for Ireland and industry representatives. At the most recent weekly meeting on 7 April, the industry representatives confirmed that Ireland’s fuel supply chains remain robust and reliable.
In terms of oil stocks more generally, NORA has operational responsibility for the day-to-day management of the State’s Strategic Oil Reserve of 85 days of oil stocks. Stock may be released from Ireland’s stockholding in the event of a shortage of refined product on the domestic market, or as recently happened to participate in an International Energy Agency collective action, to alleviate a global oil shortage.
In addition, the NORA Emergency Release Model analyses the status of the oil market in Ireland during a period of oil supply disruption. The model is used to gather and collate data supplied by oil companies in order to assess whether a supply shortage is emerging and aid a decision for the Minister, in conjunction with NORA, on whether a release of strategic reserves is required to address such a shortage.
119. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment to provide an update on the progress being made to deliver the State’s energy generation by renewable sources; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27315/26]
View answer122. Deputy Willie O'Dea asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the percentage of the electricity used in Ireland in 2025 that was generated by renewable sources; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27472/26]
View answer127. Deputy Willie O'Dea asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the percentage of the electricity used in Ireland in 2025 that was generated by onshore wind; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27471/26]
View answer133. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment for an update on Ireland’s progress towards its 2030 renewable energy targets, as outlined in the Climate Action Plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27601/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 119, 122, 127 and 133 together.
Under the Climate Action Plan, greenhouse gas emissions from the electricity sector have reached an all time low, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, and fallen by about 44% between 2016 and 2024.
The Programme for Government has reaffirmed Ireland’s targets of 80% of electricity demand to be met by renewables in the near term, with plans to move to net zero by 2050.
Ireland has made substantial progress in the development of renewable electricity capacity in recent years. We currently have over 8 GW of renewable electricity generation capacity connected to the network. This is a remarkable achievement as it means we have added approximately 5 GW of new renewable electricity generation capacity in just ten years, including doubling our wind capacity and establishing solar energy as a major pillar of our electricity supply.
Onshore wind is the largest contributor to this with over 5 GW installed, followed by solar PV with over 2.4 GW installed, and hydro, biomass, and other small sources contributing the remainder.
Provisional figures from EirGrid show that nearly 41% of electricity grid demand was met with renewables in 2025. The final figures will be published later in the year by the SEAI.
Solar is now Ireland's third largest source of indigenous electricity generation and Ireland’s fastest growing source of renewable generation. During periods of high solar output our System Operators are reporting significant decreases in grid demand, as solar self-generators producing electricity on-site reduces strain on the grid, which is not captured in the figures published by EirGrid and SEAI.
Onshore wind remains Ireland’s dominant source of renewable energy and is second only to natural gas in terms of overall electricity generation. We are among world leaders for installed onshore wind capacity per capita and get a greater share of our electricity from onshore wind than anyone else in Europe. Figures published by EirGrid show that onshore wind met 33% of our electricity demand in 2025.
The inclusion of Regional Renewable Electricity Capacity Allocations in the Revision of the National Planning Framework is a critical step towards achieving Ireland’s national renewable electricity targets and will support a plan-led approach to the strategic planning of renewable technologies, delivering a fair regional balance and distribution of the associated infrastructure.
Government also remains committed to having 5 GW of offshore wind capacity in development by 2030, with a longer-range target of 20 GW by 2040.
Five projects, with a combined capacity of 3.8 GW, are currently in development off our east coast, while the first South Coast DMAP project, 900 MW, was awarded through an Offshore RESS auction last year.
A second SC-DMAP auction, with a potential capacity of 1.5 GW, is expected to be held in 2027.
Three cross-Government taskforces, the Accelerating Renewable Electricity Taskforce (ARET) for onshore renewables, the Offshore Wind Delivery Taskforce (OWDT), and the Accelerating Infrastructure Taskforce continue to develop effective policies designed to deliver an accelerated and increased level of renewable generation capacity and related infrastructure, including strengthening the electricity grid and increasing electricity storage.
120. Deputy Tony McCormack asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the uptake to date of Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland grant schemes following the recent announcement of revised grant supports; the number of applications received and approved; the level of funding committed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25717/26]
View answer173. Deputy Jen Cummins asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment his plans to improve the schemes for retrofitting. [27855/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 120 and 173 together.
Government is committed to providing warmer, more comfortable and energy-efficient homes, while reducing energy bills, cutting emissions and lowering reliance on fossil fuels.
Following Government approval in January, I published the new National Residential Retrofit Plan (NRRP) with an enhanced set of measures to increase the delivery of home energy upgrades and help put homeowners on the pathway to decarbonising their homes.
These measures include new and enhanced attic and cavity wall insulation grants, an increased heat pump system grant, as well as grants for windows and doors. They also include higher grants for homeowners on qualifying welfare payments, new pilots focused on improving options for heat pump technology, and support for older people accessing home energy retrofits under the Healthy Age Friendly Homes Initiative.
To support continuing delivery under the NRRP, the 2026 total budget provides for a record capital allocation of over €640 million for the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland's (SEAI) residential and community energy upgrade schemes, including the Solar PV Scheme, and to support over 73,000 home energy upgrades in 2026.
The new measures are generating increased interest amongst homeowners in energy upgrades, with the SEAI reporting a near two-fold increase in applications, going to 29,018 in the first quarter of this year compared to 14,836 in the same period in 2025. This points to a strong pipeline of works for the coming months under the schemes.
Most recent SEAI figures for Q1 2026 also show:
• Capital expenditure of €91.5 million (up 18% on Q 1 2025);
• 12,312 home energy upgrades (up 3% on Q1 2025);
• 5,769 B2 upgrades completed (up 12% on Q 1 2025);
• 1,594 fully funded energy upgrades under the Warmer Homes Scheme for low-income households (up 18% on Q 1 2025); and
• 907 heat pumps installed (up 19% on Q 1 2025).
To maintain first quarter momentum and further accelerate growth through the remainder of 2026, my Department and the SEAI will continue to promote home energy upgrade grants while ensuring grant schemes terms and conditions, eligibility criteria and rates are kept under review taking account of demand, research, innovation, evolving technology and other relevant factors.
The budget of up to €3.7 billion to the end of the decade, supplemented by allocations from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), will ensure continued delivery of the SEAI residential and community energy upgrade schemes and give confidence to the sector to grow, take on staff, invest and innovate.
